| The Pug is a compact dog that is often described | | | | with gentle yet firm teaching. |
| as "a lot of dog in a small space." However, | | | | The Pug stands 12-14 inches and can weigh up to |
| despite his characteristic short and stocky body, | | | | 20 pounds. His weight can easily exceed this |
| the most distinctive feature of a Pug is his head. | | | | amount if exercise and general activity is not |
| His large, dark orb-like eyes, flat nose and wrinkly | | | | encouraged. Pugs are lazy and will lie around if |
| face are the main features that distinguish Pugs | | | | given the chance. Their inactivity makes them |
| from their other dog cousins. | | | | perfect city dogs and they are happy in |
| Pugs are definitely one of the oldest dog breeds | | | | apartments. |
| known today. It is believed this Toy breed | | | | In spite of this fact, aside from becoming |
| originated in Asia sometime before 400 BC. | | | | overweight, other health problems Pugs suffer |
| Throughout their history Pugs have been adored | | | | from include skin issues (IE. dry skin) extreme |
| by many noble people from all different royal | | | | sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures, allergies, |
| houses of the world. That being said, they really | | | | and chronic breathing problems because of their |
| established himself in Holland during the 16th | | | | flat muzzle. Despite their health issues, they live |
| century when he saved William (the prince) of | | | | an average of 12 - 15 years. As was mentioned, |
| Orange's life by alerting him to the approach of | | | | they are susceptible to breathing issues and |
| Spaniards. This earned the Pug honorary | | | | should, therefore, be provided with sufficient |
| recognition and he became the official dog of the | | | | exercise without overdoing it. In other words, |
| House of Orange. | | | | take the Pug on a few short walks a day |
| As you can see from their history, Pugs make a | | | | (weather permitting) and engage him in energetic |
| wonderful watchdog. They do not yap | | | | games. |
| unnecessarily, but will bring the approach of | | | | The Pug is available in different coat colors |
| strangers to the attention of their family. Although | | | | including fawn, apricot, silver and black. Regardless |
| they will alert owners to strangers, they are not | | | | of the color, their muzzle is always black. Their |
| an aggressive dog. The Pug is very affectionate | | | | smooth short coat is easy to groom and only |
| and loving and is friendly towards all. He enjoys | | | | requires a brushing a few times per week. That |
| the company of children and visitors and is | | | | being said, the Pug does need the wrinkles on his |
| happiest when he has the attention of those he | | | | face cleaned regularly to avoid skin problems |
| loves. This breed will display jealous behaviors if | | | | from occurring. You should also know that Pugs |
| ignored. | | | | are heavy shedders during shedding season, and |
| Pugs are quite intelligent and are easily trained, but | | | | they often grunt and snore when they sleep. |
| they have a short attention span and will tire with | | | | Any devoted Pug owner will tell you that this |
| repetitive lessons. Owners should also keep in | | | | pooch is a charmer that will win the heart of any |
| mind that these dogs are sensitive and do best | | | | dog lover. |